Association Between Neuromuscular Parameters and Functional Assessment After ACL Reconstruction

Association of Strength and Proprioception Parameters With Qualitative Assessment of Functional Tasks After ACL Reconstruction

The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury is common in athletes aged 18 to 35. ACL reconstruction (ACLR) aims to restore knee stability in the process of returning to sports. Post-surgical rehabilitation focuses on optimizing biomechanical parameters, with neuromuscular and functional tests assessing muscle strength, proprioception, and dynamic stability. Isokinetic allows the measurement of muscle strength symmetry and proprioception, while the single-leg hop and landing tasks assess functional stability and are predictive of sports resumption and injury prevention. Despite progress, concerns remain about neuromuscular factors impacting knee stability, especially during landings, which can increase the risk of secondary ACL injuries.

This study proposes examining knee strength and proprioception using isokinetic dynamometry, alongside biomechanical assessments from functional tests, to explore their relationship to biomechanical features during landings, at 6-to-12 months post-ACL reconstruction. The hypothesis is that better muscle strength and proprioception correlate with improved knee control during landing tasks.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Adult patients, aged 18-40, who have undergone a first ACL reconstruction more than 6 months ago and are being followed in a sports medicine care pathway
• Affiliated with a health insurance plan
• Information form: Non-objection to the use of data for research purposes

Exclusion Criteria:

• Previous ligament surgery of the lower limbs prior to ACL reconstruction
• Complex ligament injury (lateral ligaments, posterior cruciate ligament)
• Recent muscle injuries
• History of injury to the uninjured knee
• Pregnant woman
• Neurological history with residual effects or taking medication that affects balance/coordination
• Inability to perform a muscular assessment
• Postoperative complications (deep vein thrombosis, sepsis, stiffness/arthrofibrosis)